If you’re considering a visit to Portugal’s stunning Algarve coast and want something a little different from the usual boat rides, the Swim and Chill at Benagil tour is worth your attention.
This experience promises to get you right inside one of the Algarve’s most iconic caves—not just peering from afar but actually swimming into it with a guided crew. We’ve collected plenty of honest impressions and details to help you decide if this is your kind of day in Lagos.
What we love most about this tour is how it combines active fun with relaxed vibe—you get a workout, but also the chance to unwind with lunch, drinks, and good company. The guides, notably Brodie, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the day feel personal rather than just another group excursion.
All around a great time with Brodie. It was a nice small group, just us and one other couple. We all got to know each other which made the whole experience even better. Brodie is the Aussie version of Matthew McConaughey, inside and out. He provided us with boogie boards to swim into the cave with and a spread of some lunch afterwards. As well as all the sangria and beer we could want to drink. The swim into the cave wasn’t too challenging and was so rewarding!
10/10 experience. Brodie was an absolute pleasure to spend the day with. Very knowledgeable and an overall good human being!
Incredible day! We had booked this activity with Brodie to do the swim to the Benagil Cave but days before they had shut down the cave to all visitors. This all occurred days before the activity. Frankly, we had considered canceling as we were disappointed with the cave's closing to visitors. Thankfully we didn't! Brodie was quick to message us and update us to the unfortunate closing of Benagil. He seamlessly put together an unbelievable day for us including a picturesque hike along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. Meanwhile, Brodie set up a spot along the beach at the end of the trail complete with homemade sangria, beer, snacks, and sandwiches. We spent the rest of the afternoon enjoying …
Plus, the fact that you swim into the cave rather than just view it from a boat offers a more authentic and memorable experience.
One thing to consider is that the water can be a little challenging, and the swim is best suited for those with moderate swimming ability. The group size tends to be small, which enhances safety and camaraderie, but it also means you need to book in advance—on average, about a month ahead.
This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a lively, genuine encounter with the coast, rather than a passive sightseeing cruise.
If you’re comfortable in the water, enjoy a bit of exercise, and like the idea of a flexible, friendly guide leading the way, this trip might just be your perfect day out. It’s especially well-suited for those who value good value for their money and aren’t worried about a little physical effort.
Very very cool. Brodie is such a great guide and it was a very chill and cool group. We think this is the best way to see the cave and additionally have a great time with new people you meet. It is definitely the money worth it. This tour is unique and with all his experience and his good vibe, brodie is the best tour guide!!!
We had a great time on this adventure!!! I would highly recommend doing something different then the “regular” tours. Brodie was fun and good energy vibes. He included every one and made it comfortable. We had such a good group. One of the highlights of our trip. Thank you Brodie. Cheers!
Absolute 10/10 experience, will recommend to anyone visiting Lagos. Brody is a super chill bloke whose unique adventure is so much better than renting a kayak or taking an overpriced boat in to see the unreal Benagil cave. Brody’s van gets you to Benagil in 40 mins, while enjoying beers, banter and some good tunes. When you arrive at the beach, it’s crazy overcrowded but Brody gives you everything you need (towels, boards, sunscreen etc) and sends you to a quiet spot on the beach. The swim to the cave is bloody cold but not far at all, and easy for any adult. Brody brings your phone in a waterproof bag, and you spend a good half an hour in the cave admiring it before swimming back. Br…
Key Points
- Active and authentic: Swim into the Benagil Cave rather than just view it from a boat.
- Small group experience: Typically praised for its friendly guides and personal vibe.
- Great value: Includes lunch, drinks, towels, sunscreen, and some beach gear, all at a reasonable price.
- Suitable for moderate swimmers: The tour is designed with safety and fun in mind but requires some swimming ability.
- Fun guides and vibe: Brodie and the team are frequently highlighted for their relaxed, friendly attitude.
- Flexible options: You can hire paddleboards or kayaks on the day if preferred.
What the Tour Is All About
This isn’t your average coastal boat trip. Instead of sitting passively on a boat, you’ll start with a quick van ride from Lagos—about 40 minutes—that’s made enjoyable by good music, cold drinks, and a lively atmosphere. When you arrive at Praia de Benagil, the real fun begins. The highlight? A 60-meter swim from the beach into the iconic cave.
Yes, you read that right—you actually swim into the cave, feeling the sand between your toes and the cool water around you.
The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, and guides provide life jackets, inflatables, and boards to support your swim. Several reviews mention that the group size is kept small, fostering a comfortable environment where everyone gets enough attention and safety oversight.
One reviewer, for example, said, “Brody is such a great guide and it was a very chill and cool group. We think this is the best way to see the cave and additionally have a great time with new people you meet.”
Absolutely the best way to experience the cave! Brody made the trip as smooth as possible and his lunch, sangria, and beers were fantastic. Don’t get trapped by kayak rentals or boats that barely enter the cave! The swim wasn’t bad and he offers life jackets and pool noodles as aids if needed. Brody also hangs around on his surfboard and will make sure boats or kayakers keep their distance so you can focus on swimming. Nothing beat being able to come out of the water and sit on the beach in the cave. The food was great and it was nice to hang with the rest of the group and learn where everyone was from!
My friends and I booked this and it was the best day we’ve had on our whole europe trip! Brodie was super friendly, chatty and organised lunch and drinks for everyone which was amazing! Thank you so much Brodie, it was great to meet you!!! Would recommend to anyone visiting lagos!
Brody was a fantastic host! Highly recommend for a different way to see the Benagil cave. Very chill day in Lagos which is absolute stunning!
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Lagos.
The Journey to the Cave
The trip kicks off at JAH SHAKA SURF SHOP in Lagos, where you meet your guide and fellow adventurers. From there, it’s a scenic ride along the coast, with music, beer, and sangria making the journey even more enjoyable. It’s a good way to relax and get into the holiday spirit before the real activity begins.
Once at Praia de Benagil, the team sets up for the day, offering towels, shade, sunscreen, beach games, and music to set the mood. The swim itself is about an hour of active effort—some find it invigorating, others a bit challenging, especially if the sea isn’t perfectly calm.
As one traveler put it, “The water was rough but we felt pretty safe and not like we were going to get slammed on the rocks.” The guide’s role is crucial here—he’s there to support, instruct, and ensure everyone’s safety.
Inside the Cave
Arriving at the cave is the highlight for many. Unlike typical boat tours that merely sail by or stop outside, this experience gets you inside the famous shell-shaped cavern. The water here is clear, and the sensation of swimming into such a natural wonder is hard to beat. Many reviews mention that it’s a unique, authentic way to enjoy the cave—not just a quick glance but an actual swim.
Such a cool experience!! The guide was super chilled and friendly. We had a great time, and would recommend over a boat or kayaking tour. The waves were a bit choppy when we went out but he provided everything we needed (life jackets, etc) to ensure we could still make it into the cave. Lunch and drinks being included was a bonus and really good value. 10/10 would recommend!
My friends and I booked this tour and had an amazing time. Brody was so kind and provided everything we could have wanted including a delicious picnic lunch ft. his homemade hummus. 10/10 would recommend!!
This is a great outing if you are not already lodging on the beach. Brody gets you to the beach area and brings everything you need to have fun. Of course it is very crowded and you are swimming among big boats. The water was rough but we felt pretty safe and not like we were going to get slammed on the rocks. I would not have wanted to be on a boat the day we went because I would have gotten sea sick. Hard to take good pictures because there are so many people. Brody takes you on a little walk after the beach to see the cave from above. He is a relaxed host and most of his equipment is old and well loved. Lunch was simple and I was appreciative that we didn’t need to bring anything. Defin…
After the swim, you’ll have time to relax on the beach, explore the area, or even hire a paddleboard or kayak if you want to extend the fun. The guides are flexible and laid-back, making it easy to customize your experience.
Lunch and Relaxation
Post-swim, the tour includes a delicious deli-style lunch with vegetarian, vegan, and meat options—think hummus, chourico, ham, bread, veggies, and condiments. Several reviewers love the quality of the lunch and drinks, especially the homemade hummus and the sangria, which many say are better than expected for a tour meal.
While you’re chilling on the beach, you can enjoy Portuguese beer and sangria, complementing the relaxing vibe. Towels, shade, and beach games are all provided, creating a comfortable environment to unwind after the active swim.
The Return and Additional Activities
Later in the afternoon, the group heads back to Lagos, arriving around 6:30 or 7 pm, with plenty of daylight left to enjoy your evening. If you’re feeling energetic, you can hire a paddleboard or kayak on the day, which some reviews recommend for adding more fun or a different perspective of the coast.
Wife & I are late 40's, and love adventure and cool vibes which is why we booked this. Brodie is the type of dude I would grab a beer with. His vibe is great and he loves what he does. Pickup at surf shop was seamless & the shop allows you to change clothes pre and post trip. Proptips: Let Brodie know what your athletic level is. If you are not a great swimmer, tell him and he will hook you up to a lifejacket or floaties and swim out with you on his paddle board. . <- this is key to enjoying. If you are traveling outside of the hottest months, bring wetsuit vest. We did this end of May and had 3mm vests and it was perfect. Following is our report of the local lifeguards, which as a former …
We loved this day! Brody was so cool as was the rest of the small group that joined us. We met up in town and had a comfy ride over to Benigal. Got to make a couple of stops to check out views and learn more about the area. The swim was such a fun alternative compared to all of the kayaks and boats. Do this if you want something different than the typical experience! Recommend!
Went on this trip with my friend from the US! Had the most incredible time, and felt safe and secure swimming to the cave. The cave was so beautiful! 10/10 recommend
What the Reviews Say
The overall rating for this tour is a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 112 reviews, with 94% recommending it to others. Travelers consistently mention Brody as a standout guide, calling him friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely fun to be around. Several reviews highlight the small-group vibe, making the day feel like a trip with friends rather than a crowd.
Many say the swim into the cave is a highlight—a more authentic and exciting alternative to boat tours or kayaking. One reviewer described it as “the best way to see Benagil,” and others mention how the experience felt safe and well-organized, even if the water was choppy at times.
Some minor drawbacks include the challenge of swimming in rougher conditions and the fact that the van/bus is a bit rundown—though these are minor quibbles compared to the overall positive vibe.
Pricing and Value
At about $58.14 per person, this tour offers solid value considering everything included—lunch, drinks, beach gear, and the unique experience of swimming into the cave. It’s more than just a sightseeing tour; it’s a day of active fun, social connection, and memorable scenery.
Compared to boat trips that often cost more and only skim the surface, this experience provides a closer, more personal encounter. Many reviewers emphasize that the experience surpasses typical kayak or boat tours because it’s more immersive and engaging.
Swim and Chill at Benagil
"All around a great time with Brodie. It was a nice small group, just us and one other couple. We all got to know each other which made the whole ex..."
Who’s This Tour Best For?
If you’re comfortable swimming and looking for a more adventurous, authentic way to experience the famous caves, this is a great choice. It’s perfect if you enjoy a small-group vibe, good guides, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. That said, it’s not ideal for those who aren’t confident in their swimming abilities or who prefer a less physically demanding outing.
It also appeals to travelers who like a mix of activity and relaxation—swimming, exploring, then kicking back with lunch and drinks. If you’re traveling with active friends or a family who enjoys watersports, this could be a highlight of your Algarve trip.
This Swim and Chill at Benagil tour offers a genuinely different way to see one of Portugal’s most celebrated natural sights. It’s a mix of effort, fun, and scenic beauty, guided by friendly professionals who know how to keep everyone safe and happy. The small-group setup, inclusive lunch, and flexible options like paddleboarding make it feel personal and value-packed.
While it demands a moderate level of swimming ability and some physical effort, the feeling of swimming into such a stunning cave makes it all worthwhile. If you’re after a memorable, active day with a lively guide, this tour is certainly worth considering—especially if you like to add a little adventure to your travel stories.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for travelers with moderate swimming skills. Children who are confident swimmers and comfortable in open water might enjoy it, but those who aren’t strong swimmers should consider safety and possibly bring additional flotation aids.
What should I wear or bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and maybe a wetsuit vest if you’re sensitive to cold. The tour provides towels, sunscreen, beach gear, and inflatables, so you don’t need to bring much.
How long is the entire trip?
From start to finish, it lasts about 4.5 hours, including the van ride, swimming, lunch, and the return to Lagos.
Is there any additional cost for paddleboarding or kayaking?
You can hire paddleboards or kayaks on the day if you want to extend your day in the water, but this isn’t included in the base price.
What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is the group size large?
No, it’s a small-group tour, which many reviews find more personal and enjoyable.
How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 34 days ahead, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
If you love the idea of combining a bit of exercise, great guides, and a genuine adventure into the Benagil Cave, this tour might just be the highlight of your Algarve trip. It’s a chance to get close to nature, meet new friends, and create memories that go beyond the typical sightseeing photo.
